Details

A burly backpack built for tall hiker.

Finding a pack that fits your more altitude-inclined physique can be a difficult prospect; luckily, the Deuter ACT Trail 36 EL Backpack provides the same mountain-ready features as the ACT series of packs, but with an extra long torso for hikers between six and 6.5 feet tall. This clean looking, no-frills backpack is built for big day hikes and will easily double as an overnight backpacking pack for the minimalist that prefers to travel light and fast.

Like all of Deuter's ACT packs, the 36 EL comes with a U-shaped internal frame, as well as the well-ventilated Aircontact Trail suspension system, which allows ample amounts of air to pass between your back and the pack, meaning you won't be as sweaty where you carry your pack. Access into the main compartment is done through the top of the pack or through the front zippered panel. A hydration compatible system allows you to use a bladder system, while a stretch side pocket will accommodate a water bottle too. A detachable rain cover keeps your gear dry when a rogue rain storm blows in, and gear loops will carry both a set of trekking poles and an ice axe when you're venturing into the alpine early in the summer.

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Torso length is fairly standard

Familiarity: I returned this product before using it

It's a lightweight, okay backpack, but unfortunately the EL (Extra Long) isn't very long. The item tags say the torso roughly 8 cm longer than their standard packs and should fit hikers between 185 cm - 200 cm. I'm 6'5 (183 cm), and it's far too short. While height is correlated with torso length, there are tall people with short torsos and short people with long torsos.

My measurement in the photo (19") is likely not the way the manufacturer measures, but it should provide some point of reference. I have a too-short Deuter Futura Zero 40 (size L) which, for that same measurement, is 17.75". I also ordered a Mystery Ranch Ravine 50 XL, and the same measurement (before making any torso adjustments) was 22".